How to Fill Forklift Cylinders
Liquid propane is normally used to operate forklifts or industrial lift trucks. There is the alternative to have refueling capabilities on location or to have cylinders brought to your facility. Operators who are working with propane-powered forklifts should be trained to handle substances that are highly flammable.
1 Prior to refueling, you should wear personal protective equipment. Thick leather gloves must be worn in order to prevent liquid propane from coming into contact with the hands. The liquid is extremely cold and could lead to serious burns. Other protective equipment consists of goggles and a full face shield. A fire extinguisher should be close at hand.
2 The forklift should be shut down first. Make sure there are no open flames in the area and no lit cigarettes. Remove the protective cap on the fill valve and securely attach the fill line to the fill valve. When the fill line is in position, carefully open the bleed valve. It is normal to hear a hissing sound when opening the valve, but make certain it is air escaping - and not propane.
3 carefully open the fill valve on the fill line until you are certain there are no leaks around the connection. Then open the valve more and let the propane enter the tank. Check the tank while refueling; as soon as it is full, the bleeder valve would emit a spray of white gas. Turn off the fill valve completely first prior to closing the bleeder valve. Take the fill line out of the tank carefully. A small amount of gas that is escaping at this time is normal. Screw the protective cap back onto the fill valve. Inspect all valves to make sure that they are totally closed. Now, your truck is refueled and ready to be utilized.